The Canberra International Music Festival (CIMF) returns this autumn from April 29 to May 3, 2026. What began in 1994 as a series of intimate embassy recitals has evolved into one of Australia’s most prestigious art music festivals, now under the curatorial lens of Artistic Director Eugene Ughetti.
Centered around the industrial soul and exceptional acoustics of the Fitters’ Workshop in Kingston, the 2026 program is an “intellectually stimulating journey” that is aiming to bridge ancient traditions with the sounds of the future.
Highlights of the 2026 Program
The festival’s strength lies in its diversity of sound. The 1920s jass, electro-acoustic experiments and First Nations art music are a couple examples of what to expect.
- The Signature Series: Live the full emotional depth of Songs Beyond Twilight (April 29) or the baroque flair of Folías de España (May 1).
- Schubert & Syrah: The festival’s Friday evening (May 1) offers a sensory pairing of classic piano works with local cool-climate wines.
- Prohibition Rags: Saturday afternoon’s (May 2) 1920s-themed cocktail event featuring ragtime piano and old-world charm.
- MOSSO | Music in Motion: A day-long takeover on Saturday, May 2, featuring immersive scenery, lyrebird-inspired brass, and the post-rock sounds of Melt.
CIMF is also a leading force in the creation of new Australian music, with a strong commitment to commissioning works by women, First Nations artists, and emerging composers.
On Sunday, May 3, the festival steps outside the traditional concert hall with Bell Curve and Bell Plains, community participation events that turn the landscape into an instrument. The festival then reaches its crescendo with the Pianos and Percussion Festival Finale, a high-energy closing that promises to leave the Fitters’ Workshop humming.
EVENT INFORMATION:
Fitters’ Workshop & Various Locations
29 April – 3 May 2026
Tickets: Prices vary by event, many events are selling fast.
Event Program: Available online.
Find out more HERE
